NTC tells road users to play it safe over Christmas

NTC urges motorists to drive safely over the Christmas holidays by keeping track of their speed and fatigue

December 9, 2010

The National Transport Commission is urging all motorists to drive safely over the Christmas holidays by keeping track of their speed and fatigue.

NTC CEO Nick Dimopolous says many drivers, pedestrians and cyclists die in accidents that can be avoided.

He says drivers should take regular breaks on long trips and share driving to combat fatigue.

"Speeding, fatigue and driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol are the biggest causes of death and serious injury on our roads, with safety risks often heightened during holiday periods like Christmas," Dimopoulos says.

"Planning your trip and allowing plenty of time to get to your destination within the designated speed limit will also help keep you, your passengers and others on the road safe.

"With 1,500 Australians losing their lives on our roads each year and nearly 30,000 experiencing serious injuries, speeding, driving while fatigued or under the influence is simply not worth the risk."